By: Veronika Lazabal
Marriage is an adventure… why not start it off with a little excitement? Destination weddings can be a fun and playful way to get hitched… but they’re not for everyone. If you’ve always dreamed of celebrating your big day with 500 of your closest friends (or if you’re one of those novias that must design every detail of your reception yourself) then maybe a traditional wedding is more your style.
If, on the other hand, the idea of a smaller soiree in a fabulous location sounds like a dream come true, then it may be time to look into a destination boda.
Here’s a peek at some ideas to help you plan the perfect destination wedding:
Start with the legalities
If you’re planning on getting married abroad, make sure you do your homework long before the big day. You may need to have birth certificates translated, blood tests done, or forms filled out—the more you prepare beforehand, the less possibility of something going wrong.
Give your guests time
Send out your save the date cards about eight to ten months before the big day. That way, your friends and family will have enough time to request time off, save up air fare, and make any other arrangements necessary.
Decide what you can include
While you aren’t obligated to pay for your guests’ hotel, meals, or airfare, many brides choose to help out with some of the expenses. For example, instead of inviting 50 people, you may choose to pair the guest list down to 20 and offer to pay for part of the transportation costs. Or, you might set up the bridal party at the hotel where you’re staying. It’s also a nice touch to let your guests know that their presence is the only gift they need to give you.
Be the Negotiator
Regardless of how much you are paying for, you should try to hook your guests up with a good deal. Call a few airlines and hotels and try to negotiate a group discount; and if at all possible, plan your wedding for the “off” season, when things are more affordable. Also, come up with a list of nearby sights and activities—that way, you can convince your pals that they can make a mini vacation out of your nuptials!
Get there first
Plan on arriving a couple of days before your guests, and take note of how to get from the airport to the hotel, where nearby restaurants are, and any other “must know” facts that you can pass on.
Plan an after party
You might want to throw another reception when you get back home. It doesn’t have to be an elaborate affair… just a simple party for all those friends and family members that weren’t able to make it to your wedding.
